The UK economy is growing at its fastest pace for more than a decade, according to figures from the CBI.

It said a survey of growth recorded in May gave the strongest reading since its data began in 2003.

The poll of 726 firms found a balance of plus 35% - the difference between those reporting higher output in the last three months and those saying it was lower. It was up from plus 25% in April.

It suggested the UK economy - which grew by 0.8% in the first three months of 2014 - had continued to perform strongly going into the second quarter, the CBI said.

The pace of growth was expected to remain above average, with a balance of plus 30% for expected output increase over the next three months.

The CBI highlighted strengthening indications of growth in retail sales as well as in business, professional and consumer services sectors. It said manufacturing output continued to grow at the same solid pace as the previous two months.